Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol is requiring support partners and people managers to return to the office four days a week starting in late September. Workers expected to relocate to North American hubs have a year to make the move or opt for buyouts. Niccol emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration for business success.

In April, Starbucks reported a fifth-straight quarter of falling US same-store sales, disappointing CEO Niccol. The company’s stock has only risen 2% YTD compared to the S&P 500’s 7% gain. Niccol aims to overhaul the brand amid challenging consumer spending trends and is under pressure to deliver company updates.

Citi analyst Jon Tower is eager to hear more about the company’s progress on menu simplification and potential costs related to remodels in the upcoming quarterly report. Top executives could earn up to $6 million in stock grants if cost-cutting reduction goals are met. Niccol acknowledges the challenges of the new in-office culture and values partners’ efforts.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Starbucks to mandate workers return to office 4 days/week as CEO Brian Niccol continues turnaround efforts